More than 40 attendees at the Commerce North West General Members Meeting learned that business owners could potentially be worse off after the introduction of the Waste Levy scheme on July 1, following a brief from Mount Isa City Council.
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CEO Sharon Ibardolaza, Acting Manager of Corporate Finance James Gauvin and Councillor Paul Stretton explained to guests that the introduction of the waste levy means commercial waste would incur the proposed levy rate of $75 per tonne.
"For businesses to minimise paying the waste levy, they would need to reduce waste generation and recycle as much as possible," Ms Ibardolaza said.
Mount Isa City Council are in planning mode to ensure a smooth transition and minimal impact to the community, while looking at ways to reduce the financial burden and move towards sustainable recycling practices.
Mayor Joyce McCulloch said the introduction of the Levy will mean substantial and significant changes within Council's Waste Management operations and Council are currently exploring options in determining the best way forward for July 1.
"Council would be accepting and appreciative of any assistance from the State Government ahead of the implementation date," Cr McCulloch said.
"The State Government has indicated that Council may be eligible for some Waste Levy- associated infrastructure funding this year. Council has submitted some funding applications for things like security cameras, upgrades to traffic control, improving the internet and software upgrades."
The State Government has indicated that Council may be eligible for some Waste Levy- associated infrastructure funding this year.
- Mayor Joyce McCulloch
Cr McCulloch said Council had a tight deadline to prepare for the magnitude of changes necessary to implement the levy and would be working closely with all sectors of the community to ensure changes are clearly communicated.
"Along with the other 38 local government areas included in this levy for Queensland, we need to accept this change and we are committed making it a positive one," she said.
"We want commercial customers to be able to plan ahead for these changes and our waste and recycling team is keen to assist them in understanding the impact of the State Government policy and levy.
"This State Government impost will certainly incentivise recycling and in areas where it has previously been rolled out, higher recycling rates have been led by the commercial sector."
Business community briefing meetings will be scheduled in coming months.
Anyone who wishes to register their information in attending a meeting, or who would like more information can call Council on 07 4747 3200.
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